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Coronavirus: Cases Rise By Eight On Isle Of Wight

Coronavirus cases on the Isle of Wight have risen by eight today (Thursday).

According to official figures, it takes the total since the pandemic started to 984.

Yesterday (Wednesday) when the Island entered Tier 1 measures, there were just five new cases confirmed, as previously reported.

This morning the Island's MP has reassured Islanders that the Isle of Wight will remain a 'priority' for when the vaccine is rolled out later this month (December).

Earlier there was concern that Islanders might have to wait longer to receive the jab after it was revealed the Isle of Wight NHS Trust was not on the list of 50 areas allocated as so-called vaccine 'hubs'.

Bob Seely says the Island "doesn’t need" a vaccine hub because the jab will be distributed via GP surgeries.

It's understood a vaccination centre will be confirmed on the Island in the near future.

Mr Seely told Isle of Wight Radio:

"How vaccines are then distributed on the Island is then a matter for planning experts. This work is being done and was begun prior to vaccine approval. I thank the experts for their work. The experts have been mindful of the Island’s unique circumstances. I know this because I have spoken to them and which is why, after Portsmouth, delivery will ensure to the Island.

“Because the Island has a small population compared to cities, some of the distribution of the vaccine may be done through GPs surgeries. This has always been a potential plan, in addition to a potential vaccination centre.

“My recent statement even to the IW media on the vaccine was checked and cleared by the IW NHS Trust to ensure accuracy. I have just come off the phone from public health experts to confirm this statement".

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